The upcoming panchayat election in West Bengal has emerged as one of most violent local body elections in the country in recent times. With only a few days left for the July 8 polls, 15 people have already lost their lives in the violence which started soon after notification for the polls was issued on June 8.
Preliminary estimates suggest that about 12% of the 73,000 seats at the three tier panchayats have been won uncontested by Trinamool Congress. During the withdrawal process 9.13% nominations, mainly filed by supporters of Opposition parties, were withdrawn.
Unedifying row: On panchayat polls in West Bengal and security
